Commissioning Editor - Books

Our client, a leading STM society, is looking for a highly motivated Commissioning Editor to join their publishing team. This role is ideal for someone with a proven track record in the commissioning process and building a pipeline of high-quality book or special issue publications. The successful candidate will be responsible for building strong relationships within the research community, overseeing the review process, and ensuring timely delivery of commissioned titles. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a prestigious books program and work with key industry partners to drive its success.

Commissioning Editor: Key responsibilities  

• Create, maintain and implement a living books portfolio development plan, in collaboration with the Head of Editorial Development
• Meet annual commissioning targets for books commissioned and published
• Build relationships within the subject community and develop a network of editors, authors, and collaborators
• Manage the review and acceptance of book proposals, coordinating with the Books Editorial Committee as needed
• Provide clear guidelines for editors, authors, and reviewers, ensuring timely delivery of commissioned titles
• Work with the Books Editorial Committee, and manage its membership, meetings and activities to ensure engagement and delivery of the books development plan
• Plan for and attend relevant events/conferences to represent the books programme, commission new titles, and meet external collaborators
• Collaborate and liaise with publishing partners
• Take a central role in ensuring the books programme is developed to further meet the needs of the community and remains an attractive publication venue
• Track market developments, conduct market research, and be informed on key issues related to the science and publishing communities, including competitors
• Identify books-related items for promotion, specifically content, and work with Marketing team to increase visibility of books and related products and services. 

Commissioning Editor: Skills/experience  

• Experience in commissioning and content pipeline management, meeting annual targets for books, special issues or similar
• Proven ability to manage multiple deadlines and deliver projects on time and within budget
• Strong influencing, negotiating, and relationship-building skills
• Solid understanding of the research environment and academic institutions
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• High IT literacy and experience with online peer review and submission systems
• Open to innovation and new ways of working
• Committed to personal development and continuous learning
• Positive, enthusiastic, and committed to diversity, equality, and inclusion.  

A competitive salary, bonus, and benefits package is offered.

How to apply

Send your CV to enquiries@telferpartners.com quoting the reference TP 893. For an initial, confidential discussion please call us on +44(0)1223632510 or Contact us using our online form.

Early applications are preferred.

Referral Scheme - Telfer Partners offer a referral reward if we fill this vacancy with someone you recommend. You can send us contact details of anyone you would like to recommend to enquiries@telferpartners.com.

Equality Policy - Telfer Partners is committed to upholding a professional and impartial recruitment process. Our Equal Opportunities policy ensures that all job applicants and employees are treated fairly and equally, regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality, religion, age, disability, or union membership status.